Iliyasu Abdullahi Bah
The Northeast region is set to experience a significant electricity disruption as the Yola Electricity Distribution Company (YEDC) announces a mandatory two-day power outage across Adamawa, Yobe, and Taraba states. This planned blackout, scheduled for 7th and 8th of August comes as part of critical maintenance operations by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) in collaboration with the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO).
The extensive maintenance exercise will focus on key infrastructure at the Gombe Transmission Station, including 150MVA Power Transformer, 330KV Transmission Lines, as well as 132KV Transmission Lines.
These essential components form the backbone of electricity distribution across the Northeast, and the maintenance is aimed at improving grid stability and preventing future unplanned outages the statement said.
Frustrated residents across Adamawa, Yobe, and Taraba states have expressed outrage over the worsening electricity situation in the region, with many describing the Yola Electricity Distribution Company (YEDC) as failed in its mandate to provide stable power.
Mohammed Sani, a Damaturu resident, voiced the collective frustration. “The poor quality equipment used by YEDC has made power outages a daily routine. We barely get four hours of electricity in 24 hours what exactly is there to maintain when the power is almost non existent?”
Sadik Aliyu, a local entrepreneur, linked the region economic struggles to both insurgency and erratic power supply. “Businesses in the Northeast are dying. We are already lagging in development due to insecurity, and now, even basic amenities like electricity are a luxury. How can we grow when we can’t even power our shops?” He questioned why authorities have failed to find lasting solutions despite repeated promises.
Residents condemned the recent 10-day blackout imposed under the guise of maintenance. “If they must cut power for repairs, why don’t they provide alternative sources? This is unacceptable,” said Wali Damazai, who also criticized YEDC’s billing system. “They never delay in demanding payment, even when we get, tomorrow, it is another maintenance. What kind of Nigeria is this? We need reliable alternatives.”
Abubakar Ahmadu lamented how the power crisis has crippled basic living conditions. “This is pure negligence. Our businesses are barely surviving. We depend on boreholes for water and electric grinders to process food yet, there is no light. How do they expect us to live?”
An anonymous source highlighted the systemic failure in the power sector. “Since competent leaders who tried to fix electricity were either sacked or forced to retire, the problem has worsened. Power supply is no longer a priority in this country, and our region suffers the most. Our leaders must make this sector transparent, people are suffering daily, burdened by bills for water, food, and other essentials.”
The collective outcry underscores a deeper crisis the Northeast is being left behind in development due to poor governance and neglect. Residents demand urgent intervention, sustainable solutions, and accountability from both YEDC and government authorities to end the endless cycle of darkness and hardship.
“Enough is enough,”said Ahmadu. “We need light to live, not just survive.”
Debora Amos, said this electricity situation is unbearable, now we are facing another nightmare water scarcity with no power to pump water, vendors are already exploiting us, selling a mere 12 jerrycans for 1,500 Naira. How are we supposed to survive like this?”
The situation highlights the interconnected crises facing the Northeast where terrorism, infrastructure collapse, and economic hardship create a perfect storm of suffering. Residents warn that without immediate intervention, the humanitarian situation could deteriorate further, pushing more families into poverty and desperation.
The Northeast has historically faced electricity supply challenges, with frequent outages due to aging infrastructure and vandalism.